Man accused of causing death by careless driving

A motorist accused of causing death by careless driving of a motorcyclist near Pocklington has appeared for the first time at Hull Crown Court.

Simon Deakin, 37, made a 15-minute appearance in the dock of court three after being charged with causing the death of Joseph Baxter, 22, while driving a Vauxhall Agila on the B1246 at Pocklington.

Mr Baxter, who worked as a chef at the KP Club, in Kilnwick Percy, described as a “witty, charming young man” died after a crash on the B1246 at Fishpond Hill, Pocklington, after a collision with his purple Suzuki. Mr Baxter was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deakin, who wore a blazer and tie, spoke only to confirm his name. He did not enter a plea at this stage. Deakin, of Highfield Avenue, Driffield, indicated a plea of not guilty at Beverley Magistrates’ Court on 17 June.

Crown barrister John Thackray said Deakin appeared before the court for causing death by careless driving on 8 November 2014. He set out the legal timetable for the case. Defence barrister Andrew Nuttall agreed the timetable and thanked the judge for taking the case early.

Judge Simon Jack ordered Deakin to stand as he told him he must keep in touch with his barrister and attend next to enter his plea to the charge on 14 September. The case has been set down for a trial on 15 February next year. He granted Deakin bail and he walked free to his family.

Mr Baxter, of Driffield, was known to his friends as Joe. Colleagues at the club posted a tribute on their Facebook page. It read: “It is with great sadness to announce that our chef de partie Joe Baxter was involved in tragic motorbike accident just outside The KP on Saturday November 8, resulting in the loss of his very young life of 22.

“Words cannot describe the loss of such a witty, charming young man. His smile and bold charisma will be missed by all of his colleague past and present.